
Sign up & start saving!
Get our weekly newsletter for the latest in money news, credit card offers + more ways to save
Finder is committed to editorial independence. While we receive compensation when you click links to partners, they do not influence our content.
Updated . What changed?
![]() | ![]() | ![]() | ![]() |
Many airlines offer cobranded credit cards with airline-specific perks. If you fly with different carriers, you might like a general travel card instead.
An airline credit card typically offers rewards for airline purchases, usually in the form of airline miles. You can redeem these miles on flights or other related purchases, such as seat upgrades.
Airline cards tend to come in two varieties: cobranded cards that are associated with a specific airline, and general airline cards. A cobranded card usually offers more perks or earning potential for that specific airline, which can play a significant role in how you pick an airline card.
Look at cobranded and general airline cards that fit your airline preferences and apply like normal.
Once you receive your card, use it on categories that earn you the most miles. Cobranded cards tend to reward the most miles for purchases made with that specific airline.
An airline credit card isn’t worth it for every traveler. However, you might find them worth a spot in your pocket for a few reasons:
If one or more of these reasons don’t line up with your travel or spending preferences, you might consider searching for a general travel credit card instead.
With so many airline credit cards to choose from, it’s only natural to have some questions. Here are the 5 most common questions we receive on the subject.
Sarah Barness
Credit Cards Editor
Hi, I’m Sarah! Since I often visit family that lives 3,000 miles away, having a great airline card in my wallet is a must. I look for cards without annual fees and simple rewards structures to earn points for my airline of choice. I love comparing airline cards to find the best options. Here are some articles that might answer the questions you have.
If you want to earn flexible points or miles on flights, consider a general travel credit card. If you’re loyal to a certain airline, you might like a cobranded card.
Not sure if an airline card is right for you? Check out our guide to travel credit cards for more options.
★★★★★ — Excellent
★★★★★ — Good
★★★★★ — Average
★★★★★ — Subpar
★★★★★ — Poor
Our team evaluates credit cards to determine their value against similar cards on the market.
We rank card types — travel, cash back, business — on a set of factors that are most relevant to that type of card. We create these rankings to help you narrow down a credit card that best suits your spending and budget.
A credit card for frequent flyers between the US and Ireland.
This entry-level AAdvantage MileUp card lets you earn miles on American Airline flights and groceries without paying an annual fee.
Find out which American Express credit cards have no foreign transaction fee.
Delta Sky Club has several highly rated locations across the US for weary travelers. How can you skip the $59 price tag and get in for free?
American Airlines’ Admirals Club has more than 50 locations around the world.
Learn how to access these havens of peace, quiet and free refreshments at airports around the world.
The Asiana Visa Signature credit card is a good choice if you’re an Asiana Airlines frequent flyer.
A card with tons of features for JetBlue regulars.